The following are highlights from the November 12, 2019 regular meeting of council.
Small Lot Sizes – Land Use Bylaw Amendment – 1470-A64
On October 15, 2019, Town staff presented proposed changes to the Land Use Bylaw to allow for smaller lot sizes in certain existing residential districts. At that meeting, Council gave first reading and scheduled a public hearing. On Tuesday, November 12, 2019, the public hearing was held and, after no public opposition, Council passed the amendment.
Lease of Public Land – Land Use Bylaw Amendment – 1470-A65
This LUB amendment regarding a lease of Town land to a resident was previously presented to Council and was unopposed at a public hearing. On Tuesday, Council directed administration to enter into the presented lease agreement with the resident.
Waste Transfer Site Reclamation – Update
In 2016, contaminated piles were discovered on Town land which had previously been used as a waste transfer station. Removal of the piles at that time was unsuccessful. After reviewing options presented, Council directed Town staff to move ahead with a trial project to test the feasibility of a proposed removal method. Cost for this trial is $25,000. If the project is successful, Town staff may proceed with removal of the remaining piles at a cost not to exceed $245,000 funded from the Land Acquisition Reserve.
Third Quarter Financial Statements
Town administration presented an update of the Town’s financial statements. Most expenses and revenues are within the approved budgeted amounts for the quarter. Council accepted the report as information.
Council Remuneration
As mandated by policy, Council appoints an ad hoc committee to review Council remuneration and benefits every two years. After this review, the committee recommended to hold Council remuneration and cost of living allowance with no increase to either for the next two years. Council approved the recommendations of the committee.
Detailed Assessment Audit – Report
Earlier this year, Alberta Municipal Affairs conducted an assessment audit based on the 2018 assessment year. The purpose of this audit was to reinforce strengths in the Town’s assessment procedures and identify opportunities for improvement. The audit report noted that no changes were necessary to Town procedures and systems, but did identify that there is an opportunity to reassess land and classes of land. Council accepted the audit report as information.
